Gunsmithing Bent my gas-key...now what?

[captnmo]

Shit! I was lubing the bolt to my Armalite AR-10 and when I went to put it back on the lower, I let the bolt fall out and it landed on concrete. I realized it landed on the gas key and is bent. I confirmed it by trying to put it back in and it's definitely jamming. I didn't force it in. Now what....?

Can I attempt to bend it back or am I messing with something and making it worse? Should I just get another gas key and have it taken to a smith to have it staked? Your thoughts.


....SHIT!

 

[USMCj]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

just get another gas key, shouldnt cost too much, stake it yourself, not brain surgery.

 

[AWGunS]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

get a new gas key, torque the screws correctly while installing new key, and stake it yourself. Problem solved. If you don't know what to do for staking, do a search and I am sure you will find what you are looking for.

 

[captnmo]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Sounds easier than I've heard it to be. I've just heard a lot of warnings stating "make sure you stake it right." I've never had to worry about it since I've never just bought the key. Guess I'm going to get an education on the subject. I'll make sure I read up on it first and probably talk to Armalite on how to do it, but any other good reference I should check out? Thanks!

 

[Badshot308]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

I would just call Armalite and explain what happened. While you're on the phone ordering the new part, ask to speak to someone regarding the proper installation of the new key.

 

[Outsydlooknin75]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Staking a gas key is not fucking rocket science ...... if you have a fucking hammer punch and some way to hold the BCG you can stake it yourself.

Basically all you are doing is smashing the shit out of the key to push enough of the key metal onto the screws to keep them from turning and backing out. Thats it.

 

[Badshot308]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Some people aren't handy with tools at all. You also forgot the part about many companies using a high strength thread locker prior to staking.

 

[USMCj]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Thread locker on a part that sees that much heat is a waste of time! heat breaks down loctite very quickly, hence the need to stake it.

 

[Badshot308]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Correct, it can't be used alone without staking.

 

[USMCj]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

it shouldnt be used at all. After 1 range trip, it will be like it was never there.

 

[captnmo]

Re: Bent my gas-key...now what?

Thanks guys!